New amendments could prohibit fireworks
"Various hearings will be called in different regions. Residents can only submit their comments in writing."
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) will be calling on the public to comment on the revision of the emergency services bylaws.
According to Clr Michael Sun, the DA shadow member of the mayoral committee for public safety, the public participation process will begin in due course.
“We wait for the city to publish the notice in the media. I am not sure when this will happen, as it is in the administrative process, but we need people to know it will take place and to be aware,” said Clr Sun.
“Various hearings will be called in different regions. Residents can only submit their comments in writing. There is a lot of content that will affect the residents of the city, such as the much debated control of fireworks.
“In the proposed amendments, the entire section of allowing fireworks to be discharged during religious, cultural and public holidays are scrapped. New Year’s Eve, Guy Fawkes, Diwali, the Chinese New Year and Christmas Eve have been deleted which signifies that no fireworks may be set off during these days, unless it is with permission.
“The section that states ‘No person may light or ignite fireworks in any place where animals are present’ remains unchanged in the bylaws. We are mindful of the different cultural and religious practises, and are equally supportive of animals’ rights. This is why residents are urged to submit their comments on the proposed amendments to the bylaws,” said Clr Sun.
“Once the public participation process is completed, comments received by the public will be submitted to the relevant portfolios for consideration and recommendation,” said Clr Sun.
